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What Are Composite Tooth Fillings?

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What are composite tooth fillings? Are they effective in treating tooth damages? Composite tooth fillings or tooth-coloured are among the types of fillings that cater to individuals who prefer a natural-looking filling. If you have any questions about the composite tooth fillings, click at: www.suresmiledental.com.au.

 

Composite tooth fillings

Composite tooth fillings or tooth-coloured are among the types of fillings that cater to individuals who prefer a natural-looking filling. It is the most commonly used fillings due to the fact that it gives more natural-looking appearance compared to other fillings. This filling is made from the combination of ceramic resin and acrylic. Also, can use the materials used for the composite tooth fillings to fill in small spaces between your teeth and repair chipped teeth. Composite tooth fillings give a good resistance and durability for fractures with small to mid-size fillings that will withstand the pressure of chewing.

composite tooth fillings

Composite tooth fillings are commonly used on front and rear teeth, due to its durability and resistance. Compared to amalgam, composites fillings are more expensive and sometimes not covered by insurance. Studies have shown that composite tooth fillings are less durable than amalgam and need to be replaced frequently. One advantage of composite fillings is that it needs less of the healthy tooth to be removed and be filled in. Composite tooth fillings are a better choice for cosmetic purposes. But if the damaged tooth area is large, then your dentist may recommend other methods of teeth restoration. Always remember to seek your dentist’s opinion before you proceed in undergoing a filling procedure. It is to avoid further damage to your teeth and risk to other diseases or illnesses.

 

When to avail?

Composite tooth fillings or tooth-coloured are useful in repairing cracked or chipped teeth, due to the fact that they blend in with your teeth and gives you a natural appearance. Composite fillings are not recommended to individuals who sustain heavy use of tooth like the chewing surfaces of molars. Always seek your dentist’s opinion on which type of fillings that suits you.

 

Benefits

Composite tooth fillings or tooth-coloured is most commonly used filling because it gives you a natural-looking appearance. Here are some benefits of composite fillings that can give you if you are interested in doing it.

  • The material used in composite tooth fillings is slightly flexible that results in less drilling and preserves more of your natural tooth.
  • Composite tooth fillings have the ability to blend flawlessly with your natural teeth, thus makes them virtually unnoticeable.
  • The durability and resistance of composite tooth fillings can withstand the moderate usage and pressure like constant stress of chewing.
  • The resin material that is used on composite fillings produces a strong bond to hold your tooth.
  • Composite fillings can also be utilized to other cosmetic modifications, like changing the shape or colour of your teeth.
  • Composite tooth fillings are most suited for repairs and small fillings in your tooth.

 

Disadvantages

composite tooth fillings

If there are benefits or advantages that composite tooth fillings give to you, there are also some disadvantages. Here are some of the disadvantages of composite tooth fillings that you should note in choosing a filling.

  • Compared to amalgam, composite tooth fillings takes an increase in chair time. It is because the process of applying the composite material takes up to twenty minutes.
  • According to some studies, composite tooth fillings are less durable than amalgam. It is due to the fact that composite fillings wear out sooner than the amalgam. Also, composite tooth fillings cannot withstand the constant pressure of chewing.
  • If the composite tooth fillings are used for onlays or inlays, an additional visit to the dentist will be required.
  • Composite tooth fillings are more expensive than the amalgam fillings. And some insurance plans do not cover the expenses of this type of procedure.
  • Composite tooth filling can be used for a chipped tooth, but the composite materials may further chip your tooth.

 

Problems

Here are some of the problems that you may encounter when you use composite fillings or any dental fillings on your teeth. And if ever you may experience these problems below, call or visit your dentist immediately.

  • Tooth Pain and Sensitivity
  • Filling Allergies
  • Deteriorating Fillings

 

Care for Teeth with Fillings

In taking care of your teeth with composite tooth fillings, you should follow the good oral hygiene, and these are as follows:

composite tooth fillings

  • Regularly visit your dentist for cleanings and dental checkup.
  • Use fluoride toothpaste when brushing your teeth.
  • Always floss your teeth.
  • Eat a balanced diet meal, but be sure not to eat food that will put pressure on the composite fillings.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash at least once a day.
  • If your dentist deduces that the filling in your teeth cracked or leaking, you will be subject to an X-ray by your dentist to assess and treat the condition of your teeth.
  • Call or book online with your dentist if you have an extremely sensitive tooth, if there’s a crack in your filling or if you feel a sharp edge on your teeth.